Most Affordable Early Childhood Education Bachelor’s (Online, On-Campus)

Badge for CHEAPEST ONLINE BACHELOR'S IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION
By Dr. James Barham
Published:
Updated:

Which are the most affordable degree programs in early childhood education in the US? We rank the cheapest accredited colleges in early childhood education.

Key Takeaways

  • Use this ranking to find the most affordable top-ranked bachelor’s of early childhood education (online, on-campus, and hybrid).
  • Early childhood educators use engaging activities like playing and reading books to teach fundamental reading, writing, and math skills and gauge a child’s emotional growth.
  • Professionals may work in various educational settings, including public schools, preschools, and childcare facilities.

Best Online and On-Campus Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education Degree Programs

Sort by:
  1. Florida International University
  2. University of North Carolina at Greensboro
  3. National University
  4. Central Methodist University
  5. Florida State College at Jacksonville
  6. University of Mount Olive
  7. Charter Oak State College
  8. Northwestern College
  9. Northwest Florida State College
  10. University of Washington
  1. University of Washington
  2. Florida International University
  3. University of North Carolina at Greensboro
  4. National University
  5. Central Methodist University
  6. Florida State College at Jacksonville
  7. University of Mount Olive
  8. Northwestern College
  9. Charter Oak State College
  10. Northwest Florida State College
  1. Central Methodist University 98%
  2. University of North Carolina at Greensboro 92%
  3. Northwestern College 87%
  4. University of Mount Olive 75%
  5. Florida International University 64%
  6. University of Washington 48%
  1. Florida International University 24 to 1
  2. Florida State College at Jacksonville 23 to 1
  3. University of Washington 21 to 1
  4. Northwest Florida State College 21 to 1
  5. University of North Carolina at Greensboro 17 to 1
  6. National University 16 to 1
  7. University of Mount Olive 16 to 1
  8. Northwestern College 15 to 1
  9. Central Methodist University 13 to 1
  10. Charter Oak State College 13 to 1
  1. Northwestern College $34,250
  2. Central Methodist University $27,140
  3. University of Mount Olive $23,591
  4. National University $13,320
  5. University of Washington $11,189
  6. Charter Oak State College $7,656
  7. Florida International University $4,721
  8. University of North Carolina at Greensboro $4,422
  9. Northwest Florida State College $2,496
  10. Florida State College at Jacksonville $2,095
  1. University of Mount Olive $18,300
  2. University of Washington $17,004
  3. National University $15,912
  4. Charter Oak State College $9,288
  5. Florida International University $9,119
  6. Northwestern College $6,120
  7. University of North Carolina at Greensboro $5,219
  1. University of Washington
  2. Northwest Florida State College
  3. Northwestern College
  4. Charter Oak State College
  5. University of Mount Olive
  6. Florida State College at Jacksonville
  7. Central Methodist University
  8. National University
  9. University of North Carolina at Greensboro
  10. Florida International University
  1. Northwest Florida State College
  2. Charter Oak State College
  3. Northwestern College
  4. University of Mount Olive
  5. Florida State College at Jacksonville
  6. Central Methodist University
  7. National University
  8. University of North Carolina at Greensboro
  9. Florida International University
  10. University of Washington
  1. University of Washington 48%
  2. Florida International University 64%
  3. University of Mount Olive 75%
  4. Northwestern College 87%
  5. University of North Carolina at Greensboro 92%
  6. Central Methodist University 98%
  1. Central Methodist University 13 to 1
  2. Charter Oak State College 13 to 1
  3. Northwestern College 15 to 1
  4. National University 16 to 1
  5. University of Mount Olive 16 to 1
  6. University of North Carolina at Greensboro 17 to 1
  7. University of Washington 21 to 1
  8. Northwest Florida State College 21 to 1
  9. Florida State College at Jacksonville 23 to 1
  10. Florida International University 24 to 1
  1. Florida State College at Jacksonville $2,095
  2. Northwest Florida State College $2,496
  3. University of North Carolina at Greensboro $4,422
  4. Florida International University $4,721
  5. Charter Oak State College $7,656
  6. University of Washington $11,189
  7. National University $13,320
  8. University of Mount Olive $23,591
  9. Central Methodist University $27,140
  10. Northwestern College $34,250
  1. University of North Carolina at Greensboro $5,219
  2. Northwestern College $6,120
  3. Florida International University $9,119
  4. Charter Oak State College $9,288
  5. National University $15,912
  6. University of Washington $17,004
  7. University of Mount Olive $18,300

Pursuing a career in early childhood education requires a very compassionate and committed individual. Early childhood educators are integral to a child’s language, motor, and social development.


Featured Programs

Average Annual Cost of Online and On-campus Bachelor’s Degree Program in Early Childhood Education

According to Education Data, the average annual cost for on-campus bachelor’s degrees is $102,828 for public four-year universities and $218,004 for private universities. Students enrolled in online degree programs use minimal to no on-campus resources, so an online program may have a lower cost.

The average per credit hour cost of an online bachelor’s degree is $333, which comes to about $40,491 for full tuition. However there are more affordable colleges and universities that offer a per credit hour cost as low as $116.

The average total program cost of the most affordable online bachelor’s degree is $13,992. Even better, students enrolled in online degree programs can reduce the amount of tuition further to make it even more affordable.

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Benefits of Affordable Education in Early Childhood Education Programs

The cost of attending college is getting more expensive each year. The average student’s cost of attendance at public 4-year universities has climbed by a startling 179.2% over the last 20 years. As a result, more and more students are seeking out more affordable learning options for their bachelor’s degree.

One of the students’ most common questions is, “Are affordable online and on-campus degree programs just as good as their expensive counterparts?” The answer is a resounding, “Yes!”

Top-ranked quality affordable online and on-campus degrees are better for most students for several reasons. For one, affordable degree programs allow students to take on fewer loans, giving them more financial freedom upon graduation.

Affordable online degree programs can deliver the same quality and rigor as their on-campus counterparts. In fact, the only time it may be worth considering more expensive degree programs is when:

  • You only have eyes on one particular university.
  • When that school is the only one to offer a degree program that you are interested in.
  • There is a scholarship or grant available that would help to offset higher than average tuition costs.

Bottom Line: There may be instances that justify or necessitate enrolling in more expensive four-year colleges or universities. However, in general, choosing an affordable institution over a more expensive one can be the right move for most students.


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Most Affordable Early Childhood Education Programs

  1. #1

    Florida International University

    Miami , FL
    #4 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2024 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Florida 2024 #5 Best Public Colleges in Florida 2024 #6 Best Grad Schools in Florida 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    64%

    Graduation

    69%

    Student body

    72K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1155/23

    Career Outlook for Early Childhood Education degree at Florida International University

    Cost of Degree: $6,565
    Expenses: $18,316
    Starting Salary: $43,348
    Salary after 4 years: $48,105
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Florida International University known for?

    Florida International University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    While Florida International University’s Online Bachelor of Science Early Childhood Education does not lead to teaching certification, it does provide students with the necessary requirements to sit for teacher licensure in Florida.

    This program helps students prepare to teach in preschool and elementary classrooms through courses that explore various topics, including family participation, early childhood administration, special needs children, and assessment methods.

    Applicants must submit their official SAT or ACT scores and high school diplomas or the equivalent. Students with college experience should submit all official transcripts. There’s also a $30 application fee.

    100% Online | Self-Paced

    Average Cost per Credit

    • In State: $228.81
    • Out of State: $345.87

    Credits to Graduate: 120

    Average Tuition

    • In-state: 12,666.81
    • Out-of-state: 18,988.05
    Compare school
  2. #2

    University of North Carolina at Greensboro

    Greensboro , NC
    #7 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2024 #5 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #7 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    92%

    Graduation

    58%

    Student body

    21K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1195/24

    Career Outlook for Early Childhood Education degree at University of North Carolina at Greensboro

    Cost of Degree: $7,498
    Expenses: $13,052
    Starting Salary: $34,095
    Salary after 4 years: $37,837
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of North Carolina at Greensboro known for?

    University of North Carolina at Greensboro’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The Bachelor’s in Early Care and Education Degree Program is designed to help aspiring early childhood educators work with students with and/or without disabilities. Students who have the time can enroll in some on-campus courses as well.

    Students with no prior college education, such as an associate degree in education, are required to attend some on-campus courses. Those with an associate degree can use this early childhood degree program as a bridge program.

    Applicants to the online education program must submit official transcripts from previously attended institutions. Standardized test scores, recommendation letters, and essays are optional requirements. There’s no required minimum GPA, either.

    100% Online | Asynchronous or Synchronous

    Average Cost per Credit

    • In State: $323.71
    • Out of State: $979.79

    Credits to Graduate: 120

    Average Tuition

    • In-state: $17,428
    • Out-of-state: $32,587
    Compare school
  3. #3

    National University

    San Diego , CA
    #1 Best Online Bachelor's in Strategic Communications Degree Programs #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in California #2 Best Online Associate Degrees in California 2024 #3 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Cybersecurity
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Graduation

    22%

    Student body

    29K

    Career Outlook for Early Childhood Education degree at National University

    Cost of Degree: $13,320
    Starting Salary: $48,749
    Salary after 4 years: $53,365
    What is National University known for?

    National University ’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    National University’s Bachelor of Arts Degree in Early Childhood Education uses up-to-date theory, cutting-edge viewpoints, and reliable research findings. Coursework in the online program include learning how to create an engaging learning environment, build a personalized and adaptive curriculum, and efficiently perform instructional methodologies and procedures. In addition to online courses, students must complete a residency requirement on campus.

    Due to its year-round enrollment, students can submit their applications at any time of the year. Admission requirements are a high school diploma or the equivalent. Standardized test scores are optional.

    Hybrid | Self-Paced

    Average Cost per Credit

    • In State: $370
    • Out of State: $370

    Credits to Graduate: 180

    Average Tuition

    • In-state: $13,320
    • Out-of-state: $13,320
    Compare school

  5. #4

    Central Methodist University

    Fayette , MO
    #6 Best Christian Colleges in Missouri 2024 #8 Best Small Colleges in Missouri 2024 #3 Most Affordable Online Bachelor's of Business Degree Programs #3 Best Online Associate in English
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $27K

    Acceptance

    98%

    Graduation

    52%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1010/20

    Career Outlook for Early Childhood Education degree at Central Methodist University

    Cost of Degree: $27,140
    Expenses: $17,130
    Starting Salary: $32,637
    Salary after 4 years: $35,727
    Cost Recoup Time: 18 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Central Methodist University known for?

    Central Methodist University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The online Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education at CMU allows students to explore the current issues related to children’s developmental and educational requirements. Students will be better equipped with abilities to understand a child’s thoughts, feelings, and actions.

    Online students in this early childhood education program must participate in practicum experiences and internships. The program’s coursework prepares graduates for advanced degrees.

    Applicants must have completed 11 or fewer college credit hours to qualify. ACT or SAT scores and official transcripts must be given to CMU.

    100% Online | Self-Paced

    Average Cost per Credit

    • In State: $260
    • Out of State: $260

    Credits to Graduate: 120

    Average Tuition

    • In-state: $26,360
    • Out-of-state: $26,360
    Compare school
  6. #5

    Florida State College at Jacksonville

    Jacksonville , FL
    #7 Best Online Associate Degree Programs That Can Be Completed in 1 Year #9 Best Online Associate Degrees in Florida 2024 #10 Best Online Associate in Early Childhood Education #12 Best Online Bachelor's in Network Administration Degree Programs for 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $3K

    Graduation

    37%

    Student body

    32K

    Career Outlook for Early Childhood Education degree at Florida State College at Jacksonville

    Cost of Degree: $2,657
    Expenses: $11,711
    Starting Salary: $29,843
    Salary after 4 years: $33,119
    Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Florida State College at Jacksonville known for?

    Florida State College at Jacksonville’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Florida State College at Jacksonville’s Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education prepares students to work in public and private schools. Future early childhood educators can tailor their own program and choose a concentration.

    In addition to coursework and concentration, students must complete a professional portfolio and capstone project and pass three Florida Teacher Certification Examinations. The program’s capstone is an internship that requires students to work at an accredited public or private school (K-3) for an entire semester.

    Applicants must submit all official transcripts from the previous college attended. Applicants with only a high school diploma or equivalent may be required to complete prerequisite courses.

    Hybrid

    Average Cost per Credit

    • In State: $104.88
    • Out of State: $218.55

    Credits to Graduate: 120

    Average Tuition

    • In-state: $2,938
    • Out-of-state: $9,992
    Compare school
  7. #6

    University of Mount Olive

    Mount Olive , NC
    #2 Best Online Associate Degrees in North Carolina 2024 #10 Best Online Bachelor’s in Agribusiness and Agriculture Degree Programs #11 Best Online MBA Programs in North Carolina #13 Best Online Bachelor's in Religious Studies Degree Programs for 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $24K

    Acceptance

    75%

    Graduation

    49%

    Student body

    3K

    Career Outlook for Early Childhood Education degree at University of Mount Olive

    Cost of Degree: $23,591
    Expenses: $13,333
    Starting Salary: $36,107
    Salary after 4 years: $39,526
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Mount Olive known for?

    University of Mount Olive’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    The web-based Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education at the University of Mount Olive also focuses on developing your marketable skills and obtaining knowledge about how to teach pre-K students. The curriculum incorporates practical opportunities into all of its courses.

    Students will study courses that explore various topics, including technology for early childhood educators, health, safety, and nutrition for young children, early childhood administration, and American education. Students can enroll in the program as licensure or non-licensure candidates—those who enroll as licensure candidates will complete more credit hours.

    Interested students must submit official high school transcripts or the equivalent.

    100% Online | Self-Paced

    Average Cost per Credit

    • In State: $496
    • Out of State: $496

    Credits to Graduate: 120

    Average Tuition

    • In-state: $23,591
    • Out-of-state: $23,591
    Compare school
  8. #7

    Charter Oak State College

    New Britain , CT
    #6 Most Affordable Online Colleges Ranked for Students 2024 #6 Best Public Colleges in Connecticut 2024 #7 Best Small Colleges in Connecticut 2024 #7 Most Affordable Colleges in Connecticut 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Graduation

    100%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for Early Childhood Education degree at Charter Oak State College

    Cost of Degree: $8,254
    Starting Salary: $36,429
    Salary after 4 years: $40,427
    What is Charter Oak State College known for?

    Charter Oak State College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The online Early Childhood Education Bachelor’s Degree Program at Charter Oak offers individualized advising to help future educators succeed.

    Early childhood education students of Charter Oak will receive a sophisticated understanding of early childhood philosophy and practices. The program’s curriculum is designed to give students the professional training to hold non-certified administration or teaching positions. Educational psychology and sociology are the two prerequisites for concentration options.

    Interested students must submit all official transcripts. Standardized test scores are optional. The program awards college credit for prior learning without requiring a minimum GPA.

    100% Online | Self-Paced

    Average Cost per Credit

    • In State: $319
    • Out of State: $425

    Credits to Graduate: 120

    Average Tuition

    • In-state: $8,254
    • Out-of-state: $10,796
    Compare school
  9. #8

    Northwestern College

    Orange City , IA
    #12 Best Online Colleges in Iowa 2024 #14 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2024 #17 Best Online Master's Programs in Iowa 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $34K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    63%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for Early Childhood Education degree at Northwestern College

    Cost of Degree: $34,250
    Expenses: $14,550
    Starting Salary: $33,215
    Salary after 4 years: $36,361
    Cost Recoup Time: 19 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Northwestern College known for?

    Northwestern College ’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Northwestern College’s online Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood is a bridge degree program designed to help associate degree in education holders obtain a teaching license. This degree program offers a Birth through Grade Three, Inclusive Setting endorsement.

    Students must complete a student teaching experience and online coursework. You don’t need to travel far to complete practicum hours; instead, you can coordinate with the college in locating accredited schools nearby.

    Students must submit their official college transcripts. 80-100% of your associate degree will be transferred to the bachelor’s degree program, allowing you to graduate in 2.5-3 years.

    100% Online | Self-Paced

    Average Cost per Credit

    • In State: $340
    • Out of State: $340

    Credits to Graduate: 124

    Average Tuition

    • In-state: $32,700
    • Out-of-state: $32,700
    Compare school

  11. #9

    Northwest Florida State College

    Niceville , FL

    Tuition + fees

    $3K

    Graduation

    38%

    Student body

    6K

    Career Outlook for Early Childhood Education degree at Northwest Florida State College

    Cost of Degree: $3,246
    Starting Salary: $28,426
    Salary after 4 years: $31,546
    What is Northwest Florida State College known for?

    Northwest Florida State College’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The Northwest Florida State College’s Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education online program is best for aspiring early childhood educators who want to focus on teaching students from birth to four years old. This degree program, however, is designed for students who already hold an associate degree in education.

    This program requires students to complete a series of courses related to early childhood education and 6 hours of one foreign language at the college level. Upon completing online coursework, students will have a 450-hour internship to put theory into practice.

    Applicants must have at least 18 transfer credits with a minimum 2.0 GPA on all coursework.

    100% Online | Self-Paced

    Average Cost per Credit

    • In State: $122.59
    • Out of State: $123.59 

    Credits to Graduate: 120

    Average Tuition

    • In-state: $3,246
    • Out-of-state: $11,625
    Compare school
  12. #10

    University of Washington

    Seattle , WA
    #1 15 Best Self-paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2024 #4 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2024 #5 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2024 #5 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    48%

    Graduation

    84%

    Student body

    58K

    Career Outlook for Early Childhood Education degree at University of Washington

    Cost of Degree: $12,242
    Expenses: $19,848
    Starting Salary: $58,020
    Salary after 4 years: $64,387
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Washington known for?

    University of Washington’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The University of Washington’s online Bachelor of Arts in Early Care & Education allows students to enroll in cohort classes to get to know each other. Students will experience multidisciplinary coursework and community-based learning.

    The program requires students to focus on the importance of equity and diversity to provide efficient early care and education to various communities. Students will switch from reflection to practice by the end of this program, which is completed through 3-5 hours of classroom experience per week.

    Interested applicants must have at least 45 transfer credits with a minimum 2.0 GPA on all previous coursework. While standardized test scores are optional, personal statements, resumes, and transcripts are required.

    100% Online | Self-Paced

    Average Cost per Credit

    • In State: $231
    • Out of State: $231

    Credits to Graduate: 120

    Average Tuition

    • In-state: $10,629
    • Out-of-state: $37,998
    Compare school

Career Outlook for Students with Early Childhood Education Degree

Go to Degree Finder tool

Early Childhood Education And Teaching

Degree Level: Bachelor's

  • Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)
  • Avg. Cost of Degree*: $9,222
  • Avg. Expenses*: $16,440
  • Avg. Starting Salary*: $38,005
  • Avg. Salary after 4 Years*: $42,175
  • Avg. Cost Recoup Time**: 12 years
  • Job Growth: 1.44%
  • Number of Jobs: 2,135,000
  • * denotes ‘annually’
  • ** denotes ‘at 15% of annual salary’

Career Salaries

CareerJob GrowthAvg. Salary
Postsecondary Teachers, All Other3.61%$68,169
Education Teachers, Postsecondary3.77%$67,197
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education1.04%$61,619
Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education0.82%$60,338
Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education0.70%$59,354

Average Career Salaries

Bottom 10%MedianTop 10%
$39,926$59,808$89,383

Promising Job Markets

StateCost of LivingAvg. Salary
#2 New York5% higher than average$79,241
#3 Michigan15% higher than average$60,970
#4 Ohio14% higher than average$61,211
#5 California26% higher than average$86,860
#6 Rhode Island20% higher than average$81,131

Top Industries

IndustryAvg. Salary
Postsecondary Teachers, All Other$68,169
Education Teachers, Postsecondary$67,197
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education$61,619
Data from The Bureau of Labor Statistics, The Department of Education College Scorecard, The Department of Education NCES, and The Council for Community and Economic Research.

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How To Choose the Best Affordable Early Childhood Education Degree

While the affordable early childhood degree programs in our ranking offer a high quality, yet low-cost education, there are several factors that you will want to consider when choosing which affordable degree program to choose.

  • Cost and financial aid opportunities: While affordable early childhood education programs offer lower than average tuition, some are higher than others, and some may include fees that other programs do not.

    • Before choosing an early childhood education degree, make sure that you understand all of the associated costs of the program. It is a good idea to speak with the college’s financial aid office and ask them about the program’s total cost, including fees, and inquire about available financial aid. Most schools are willing to help you calculate tuition after assistance.

  • Program format: If you’re a busy student with obligations outside the classroom, enrolling in early childhood education degrees that offer a 100% online learning format is wise. It is also important to know how the classes are delivered. An online program will offer either asynchronous or synchronous classes.

    • If you are looking for more collaboration opportunities, enrolling in an online program with synchronous online classes may be a better option. If having the ability to study at your own pace is important to you, choosing an online program that offers asynchronous classes could be your best bet.

  • Location: Some online bachelor’s degrees in early childhood education require students to complete on-campus coursework at some point. So, choosing a school that is physically near you may be important.
  • Career support services: Even though the start of your career could feel a long way off, you should research the career support services offered by the school. These services could consist of active alumni networks, employment fairs, and one-on-one career counseling sessions. These services can be a great way for college seniors and new grads to network with employers and get job offers.
  • Student support services: These important support services help online learners to achieve social, academic, and career success. One of the most important student support services includes technical support.

    • Technical issues are more than just a hassle for online students because those unable to use computers or traverse digital learning environments cannot advance in their studies.

    Other resources and accommodations students should consider are:

    • Library Services
    • Networking Programs
    • Personal Support Services
    • Academic Support Services
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    What To Expect from an Online Early Childhood Education Degree

    Before pursuing a degree in early childhood education, it’s important to consider if this is the right degree program for you.

    A bachelor’s in early childhood education requires candidates to be very compassionate and have a lot of patience since they’ll be working with children from birth to eight years of age.

    The typical early childhood curriculum for a bachelor’s degree requires students to complete 120 credit hours plus a teaching practicum. The length of the bachelor’s degree program varies based on three factors: required credit hours, enrollment status, and course pacing.

    Full-time students typically complete coursework in four years, while part-time students complete their degree in five to six years. Those who want to graduate faster can enroll in accelerated online degree programs to graduate in three years.

    Several online programs for early childhood education serve as bachelor’s degree completion programs. This early childhood education degree requires applicants to already have an associate degree or equivalent work experience.

    Key Point: Degree completion programs and accelerated online degree programs in early childhood education are a great way to shorten the time required to earn a bachelor’s degree.

    Admission Requirements

    Admission requirements for online bachelor’s in early childhood education programs often do not require students to have a professional or educational background in the field. The standard requirements include the following:

    • High school diploma or the equivalent
    • Standardized tests like the SAT or ACT

    Some schools require a minimum of 2.0-2.05 GPA, while others have no GPA cut-off.

    More prestigious and selective schools may require students to have stellar letters of recommendation and personal statements.

    Hybrid and online degree programs might require students to pass technological requirements.

    Key Point: Specific admission requirements vary by school. Contact the college’s admissions department for their specific requirements.

    Common Courses in Early Childhood Education

    Child Assessment

    This course equips students with techniques for evaluating children through coursework, observations, and exams. The coursework will include filling out forms and materials covering assessment methods.

    Infant and Toddler Development

    Students will gain knowledge of children’s social, cognitive, physical, and emotional development. The age covered in this course is birth to eight. These courses typically cover appropriate programming and surroundings for newborns and toddlers.

    Social Development

    This course often has two parts: understanding child-to-child and child-to-adult connections. Interaction strategies are typically studied in the classroom and by observing children in daycare or preschool settings.

    Language Development

    Understanding how young children interact with adults and other children is the main goal of this course. Early childhood language development is evaluated through observing and interacting with children and how they interact with adults and other kids.

    Health, Safety, and Nutrition

    This course focuses on developing safe, healthy learning environments for young children. Students must often attend seminars exploring state and federal laws and guidelines regarding young children’s health and nutrition.

    Early Childhood Special Education

    This ECE course is a specialized course designed to help aspiring teachers obtain the abilities necessary to care for young children with special needs. The course addresses differentiation in early childhood settings, inclusive methods, and instructional strategies.

    Moreover, this ECE course will help students learn how to collaborate with families. A practicum may be a required part of the class.

    Curriculum Development

    This course allows students to explore the fundamental theories of child development and how to apply them to planning and delivering early childhood education curricula. Other topics include the design of developmentally appropriate lesson plans and learning centers to fit the needs of specific age groups.


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    Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education Career and Salary Outlook

    Early childhood education is one of the fastest-growing fields in the US. One of the most significant reasons behind this rise is the renewed emphasis on the significance of preschool education and Head Start programs.

    According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, employment for early childhood educators is expected to grow 15% from 2021 to 2031. The expected starting salary of these educators is $22,840 annually.

    Those who pursue leadership roles in daycares, preschools, and other settings akin to these should anticipate significantly higher starting salaries. The typical yearly salary for those types of positions is $58,530.

    Preschool teacher

    This early childhood education professional helps pupils develop motor, language, and social skills. They plan educational activities and work with young children who aren’t yet old enough to start kindergarten. The job will includes planning and executing lessons, supervising learning activities, and monitoring student progress.

    Average Annual Salary: $30,210

    Special education teacher

    Special education teachers are paid more than other early childhood educators. Their job entails working with children with disabilities under the age of eight. Duties include evaluating students, defining academic goals, tracking progress, instructing students, adapting materials for students, and co-teaching with the classroom teacher.

    These professionals can work in a classroom, small group, or in a one-on-one environment. They could also serve as a mediator between the parents and the school.

    Average Annual Salary: $61,820

    Teacher’s assistant

    A teacher’s assistant helps classroom advisors prepare materials, supervise students, and perform other classroom duties. The teacher can request that you assist one or a few students who require extra help with their coursework.

    Average Annual Salary: $29,360

    If, on the other hand, you don’t want to pursue the traditional career paths of early childhood education, you have various options as well. You can become a:

    Childcare center director

    A childcare center director is a supervisory position and is integral in running learning facilities for younger children. To ensure the instructors and other staff members are meeting the needs of the pupils, you can hire, manage, and keep an eye on them. Also, you can be in charge of business-related duties like managing finances, processing payments, adhering to rules, and contacting parents.

    Average Annual Salary: $47,310

    Childcare worker

    While they are more likely to work outside the traditional classroom, childcare providers have a similar role to preschool teachers. They might work for a family, a company that provides childcare, or early childhood centers/childcare centers. These professionals’ roles include keeping children safe and creating routines for them.

    Average Annual Salary: $27,490

    Ways to Pay for Your Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education

    Students pursuing a bachelor’s in early childhood education, whether online or on-campus, may qualify for various financial aid opportunities. The best way to determine eligibility for financial aid is to fill out the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA). Applicants will receive an eligibility letter from the federal government, state government, or the school itself.

    Students who prove their financial needs can also apply for compensated work experience through federal work-study programs. If you’re worried that you might not have the time for this, these federal work-study programs provide flexible hours. You can find information about work-study programs on-campus or in facilities near your area.

    In addition to the financial assistance offered through federal student aid, students can also hunt for grants and scholarship opportunities. Private scholarships are widely available, particularly for those pursuing careers in teaching.

    Students and new grads may also be eligible for a federal incentive program like Teach for America or the TEACH Grant since some teaching positions are categorized as public service.

    Student loans must be repaid with interest. You should apply first for federal student loans because they often have lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options than private loans. Private loans from banks and lending organizations have higher interest rates and strict repayment terms.

    Education Scholarships Available to Early Childhood Development Degree Students:

    Early Childhood Education Certification and Licensure

    The licensure or certification requirements for childcare providers vary by state, but typically you must enroll in childcare classes covering classroom management, child development, nutrition, and safety (including how to spot abuse or maltreatment indicators), and pass an exam proving your expertise.

    Additional courses that may be necessary include business management, medicine delivery, record-keeping, and CPR for infants and children. Check with your state’s family or social services department for the most recent information, as childcare worker rules differ from state to state and can change during legislative sessions.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Are bachelor’s in early childhood education skills in high demand?

    Yes. Pursuing an online bachelor’s degree in early childhood education is worthwhile as early childhood education programs offer many rewarding job opportunities that can significantly impact society. Educators contribute to laying the early childhood foundations for academic and personal growth by working with young children and their families.

    Can you get an early childhood education degree online?

    Yes, earning a degree in early childhood education online to be qualified to teach children is possible. Many universities have online programs that let you complete the majority of your core courses and coursework using an online learning environment. You can finish any fieldwork, practicum, or student teaching requirements at nearby schools and child care centers.

    Why is Early Childhood Education important?

    Early childhood educational development is crucial since it is the foundation of a child’s learning and significantly impacts their educational, professional, and personal success. To help young children acquire healthy social skills and a solid basis for knowledge, preschool and elementary school teachers who are both experts in teaching and child development are imperative. Teaching young children to be better prepared for success in elementary education and beyond relies on their positive experiences throughout their early education years.

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